Disinflation continues in EMs; Mexico’s industrial production rises; Gabon’s outlook turns negative
Sep 18, 2023
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In this podcast, Moody's analysts discuss the reasons behind disinflation in emerging markets, Mexico's increasing industrial production, and the impact of Gabon's political crisis on its outlook. They also explore the potential consequences of the coup in Gabon, including its effect on international financial support and the possibility of economic sanctions. Additionally, they touch on Gabon's rating outlook and the Federal Reserve's policy focus.
Disinflation is continuing in most emerging markets due to specific country factors like higher medicine costs and phasing out of subsidies.
Gabon's rating outlook turned negative due to military intervention, increasing political and government liquidity risks.
Deep dives
US CPI Data and Fed's Decision
The podcast discusses the recent US CPI data and its implications for the Federal Reserve's decision. The CPI rose 0.6% in August, with core inflation excluding food and energy rising 0.3%. While these numbers were slightly higher than expectations, they are unlikely to change the Fed's course. The main question is whether the Fed will hold rates or not, and most economists expect them to hold. However, there is still some risk of inflation, especially in energy-related components, which may impact future rate hikes.
Inflation Trends in Emerging Markets
The podcast explores inflation trends in emerging markets. Recent data shows a continuation of the disinflation process in most emerging markets. However, some countries, like Romania, Colombia, and the Philippines, have experienced higher-than-expected inflation. These increases are mainly driven by factors specific to these countries, such as higher medicine costs, the phasing out of gasoline subsidies, and higher rice prices due to export bans. Overall, the disinflation trend in emerging markets remains intact, although the risk of higher food inflation and the impact of El Nino are worth monitoring.
Rating Action on Gabon
The podcast discusses a recent rating action on Gabon due to a military intervention. Moody's changed Gabon's rating outlook to negative from stable, while affirming the CWA1 rating. The military intervention has increased political and government liquidity risks in Gabon, which could impact the economic outlook and financial support from the international community. The IMF program in Gabon is also expected to be affected, leading to potential financing challenges. The possibility of economic and financial sanctions further increases the government's liquidity risk. Resolution of the negative outlook depends on the stabilization of the political situation and progress on an orderly transition.
Moody’s analysts discuss the country-specific reasons inflation is slowing in emerging markets; why Mexico’s industrial production is increasing; and how Gabon’s coup factored into its outlook change.
Speakers: Vittoria Zoli, Analyst – Emerging Markets, Moody's Investors Service and Mickaël Gondrand, Analyst – Sovereigns, Moody’s Investors Service
Host: Scott Phillips, Associate Managing Director – Emerging Markets, Moody’s Investors Service
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